Tires MICHELIN or OEM Mazda

Michelin X Ice Snow for winter tires on my VW. Improved grip and stopping distance below 7C compared to all weather tires, even when there is no snow or ice.

I received my winter set today. Since we only get a handful of actual snow days a season and most of it cleaned within hours, I went with a "performance winter" set, the Michelins pilot alpine 5.

Michelin is the best tire brand.

I typically buy Cooper tires, good quality without the cost of Michelins.

For me it’s Michelin only; it’s the only tire where I can tell a difference between other tires

I always do Michelin Pilot Sport 4S.

My previous set were the Bridgestone Blizzaks. Now, I'm using a set of Michelin X-Ice. I've driven around the city and as far as Whistler/Big White (I used to go Cypress 3-4 times a week too during the winter). Blizzaks were a beast in heavy snow. But I think for what you're looking for, I would just go with the X-Ice. They're really quiet and the ride is really comfortable.

Among the low-cost good ones; Vredestein. Now I stick to Michelin (bought various X-Ice2/3/PA3) as I like that they won't feel like winter tires.

I have Michelin Ice-Xes on my GTI and they do a great job.

I drive my RWD performance summer tires in sub freezing temps when it’s dry out, WITH caution. It will be like using hard plastic tires. No sudden shift in weight please!